Category: Tech Tip – Drive Train

When it comes to RC buggies, 4WD tends to dominate the modern scene with its sheer traction and performance. But ask any long-time hobbyist, and they’ll tell you there’s something special about RWD (rear-wheel drive) off-road buggies. They may not have the grip or stability of their 4WD cousins, but they more than make up […]

In the world of 1/10 on-road RC racing, belt-driven four-wheel-drive cars have earned a reputation for refinement, speed, and tunability. While shaft-driven cars such as the TT-series remain popular as entry points, racers who want to unlock the next level of performance often turn to belt-driven platforms. Among these, the Tamiya TA08 Pro has become […]

The Tamiya TT-01 is one of those kits that just about every RC enthusiast has crossed paths with at some point. It’s simple, durable, affordable, and for many people, it was their first taste of on-road RC fun. Out of the box, it’s a 4WD touring car, but one of the coolest things you can […]

3D printing can come to the rescue. For details go to this page: https://upgradeparts.com/2025/08/30/tamiya-tt01-metal-drive-shaft-stablizer/    

On an RC car, the relationship between the pinion gear (on the motor) and the spur gear (on the drivetrain) determines your gear ratio. When you run a larger pinion with a not-so-large spur, you’re gearing the car toward higher top speed at the expense of torque and thermal efficiency. Here’s what that means in […]

The Tamiya TT-01 rear gearbox loose problem is a common issue among the TT-01 chassis. This is when the rear gearbox housing aka differential case becomes loose, which can result in drivetrain instability, gear misalignment, or even stripped gears over time. The screws securing the gearbox halves may loosen over time or strip the plastic […]

Yes, metal RC car gears are generally SLIGHTLY noisier than plastic gears, although this is often a trade-off for strength and durability. The main reason for the increased noise is that metal gears have a much harder contact surface. Unlike plastic, which naturally absorbs some vibration and softens the gear mesh, metal transmits vibrations directly, […]

Real motor oil is designed for fluid film lubrication in car engines at high temperatures. RC gears, especially in electric models, often require thicker, clingy lubrication like grease. Motor oil will sling off quickly due to centrifugal force, leaving gears unprotected. So the answer is NO.

To lap RC car gears (i.e., smooth out the gear mesh by controlled wear), you need a safe, mildly abrasive compound that can polish without damaging. Toothpaste works for light break-in runs (1–2 minutes at low speed). Follow these steps: Apply thin layer of compound to gear teeth. Run the gears at low speed for […]

Applying Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to an RC car gearbox is not recommended, and here’s why: 🔧 What Will Happen if You Use Vaseline in an RC Gearbox: ❌ 1. Poor Lubrication Under Load Vaseline is not designed for high-speed mechanical parts. It becomes too thin when warm and doesn’t provide proper film strength under pressure. […]